Feb 24, 2010 – ASTi recently upgraded four communications systems for the Target Acquisition School in the 428th Fire Acquisition Training Center, in Ft. Sill, Oklahoma. The communications systems were part of a hands-on training experience for the Urban Terrain Module (UTM), Open Terrain Module (OTM), and Close Air Support Module (CASM) in the Joint Fires and Effects Training System (JFETS) immersing the students in a simulated realistic environment that mirrors actual wartime situations.

The ASTi legacy workhorse DACS platform with Model Builder software was replaced with the latest Telestra 4 systems with ACE software extending the communication features to include:

• Improved simulated radio and intercom performance
• Greater networked communications processing
• Drop and fit hardware replacement, no cable or peripheral changes required

The installation was quick and seamless with the ability to utilize the existing network and TDM cabling used by the DACS in the new T4 configuration. The customer was also able to re-use their existing simulated SINCGARS panels, Hand Held Terminals, Headsets, PTTs, and audio cabling since the new ACE-RIUs carry the same functionality and peripheral connection points as the RIU.

The DACS and RIUs, originally deployed in 2002, were transferred to another part of the facility for networked communications since they are still in excellent running order after eight years.

Ft. Sill also received a full ASTi Operations Training course to coincide with the installation of the new systems.